Blog

Today's guest post, Deserts Will Blossom is contributed by Lisa Newton of Amateur Nester blog. Check out her website to find more helpful information about infertility, as well as her eBooks too, at www.AmateurNester.com. Thanks .

A Prayer for Facing Another Who is Pregnantfrom the book Dancing Upon Barren Land - Prayer, Scripture Reflection & Hope for Infertilityby Lesli A. Westfall
"Faithful God, everywhere I turn, I see a pregnant belly. The very .

by Lesli A. Westfall
When I first start leading support groups we'd use a specific book. Other times I created the lesson and shared it within the group. Reproductive Cycle vs. Relationship is just one of .

MALE STERILITY
Prayer: "Heavenly Father, Your Word said You formed my inward parts. I am fearfully and wonderfully made in Your image. You made me male and you gave us the command to be fruitful and multiply, .

I've concluded over my years of struggling with infertility --- I needed support! Support beyond what was given by my family and closest friends. I needed support from one who is going through it, just .

I'm starting a monthly series of posts for Infertility Etiquette. The word etiquette originated in the mid 18th century from the French, essentially meaning 'ticket'. Back in the day it was a list of ceremonial .

Prayer for Difficult Relationshipsby Lesli A. Westfall
"Sovereign Lord, this fertility journey is not easy on my relationship with others. Help me to be silent or to watch what I say. Let no unwholesome word come .

A Prayer for a Broken Heartby Lesli A. Westfall
Compassionate Father, my heart is crushed from this infertility battle. My emotions are frazzled. Lord, You said in Your Word you are close to the brokenhearted and save .

For the One Going Through Infertility
Forgive often.
Educate others about infertility.
Teach family and friends what to say and how to say it to you.
When on medication, or going through procedures, be gentle with yourself.
It is ok .

photo credit Hannah Bunker
Three years ago today my book, Dancing Upon Barren Land - Prayer, Scripture Reflection & Hope for Infertility was published. It's hard to believe it was three years ago! I must say, .

Once again I'm so grateful to have as a guest post from Kristin B. Meyer, LMSW, Assistant Director of Adoption Services from Bethany Christian Services. If you'd like to know more about Bethany's support services for .

The end of 2015 is approaching and for some of you this has been a rough year. Perhaps you've tried everything you can do medically to conceive, including extensive fertility treatments, yet still no baby.
If .

Today's guest post is from Christ Nueman. She is an infertility survivor and an adoptive mom with a huge hear for those walking the journey of infertility and loss where she is co-founder of A.B.I.D.E. Ministry .

Will You Join Me?
When: Thursday, April 9th, 2015Time: 7:00 p.m. CSTPlace: Right at your own computer or smart phoneTopic: Baby-Related Holidays - How to Handle the Days with Grace
In order to take part in April .

Today's guest post is from one of my dearest friends I've come to know on this infertility journey, Roxanne Knott, founder of Grace Filled Waiting, an online ministry devoted to prayer and compassionate encouragement for .

5th Annual Family Building Conference April 25, 2015in Kansas City, Missouri
REGISTER HERE: www.kcinfertility.org
Are you beyond frustrated trying to conceive? Do you need support and encouragement? Would you like to learn ALL of the options available .

Y'all! This is my friend, Emmy Blakely.
Allow me to give you the scoop on her.
She is the creative founder behind the event, Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference. I came to know Emmy as .

Today's guest post, Be Still and Know I am God is from my friend, Beth Forbus of Sarah's Laughter , a ministry providing Christian support for Infertility and Child Loss.
I first came to know of Sarah's .

Our guest post today is from Lisa Newton of Amateur Nester blog. In her words, she describes herself as a daughter of Christ trying-to-conceive and hoping to encourage others doing the same. And I must say, .

Secondary Infertility
"God of abundance, I'm thankful for the one child You have given me but am struggling with guilt for desiring another. Your Word said there is not guilt or condemnation for those who are .

Mark your calendars for April 24 - 25th, 2015 for
Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference Laguna Hills, California
You may be wondering what is Choose Joy? Well, Choose Joy, IMO, is one of the best .

Daughter Sing SoftlyBy Lesli A. Westfall
Along with the visit of winter comes the wet, dull, silent days and gray landscape, even in Southeast Texas. On the other hand, there is always a turn between the seasons. .

Prayer for the Futurefrom the book, Dancing Upon Barren Land - Prayer, Scripture Reflection & Hope for Infertilityby Lesli A. Westfall
Shepherd of my soul, I praise You because You have created me and have a .

Fertility Fact Friday
Embryo Adoption
Recently a dear friend of mine sent me this article, Infertility Leads Couple to Embryo Adoption. It's the story of this dear couple, Leslee and Mitchell and their journey of faith through .

Surviving the Holidays
Tips for Infertility1. Be Prepared: Discuss with your spouse how you will handle questions about your future family, or how you two will respond with a distant relative who has the baby booties .

Join the Online Support Group
"How to Get Through the Holidays"
This Thursday, December 18 at 7 p.m CST
This Thursday marks Dancing Upon Barren Land's first online support group gathering through Google Hangouts. The topic, How to Get .

A Prayer of Thanksgivingfrom BookofCommanPrayer.net
"Accept, O Lord, our thanks and praise for all that You have done for us. We thank You for the splendor of the whole creation, for the beauty of this world, for .

The month of October marks National Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness month here in the United States. We here at Dancing Upon Barren Land ministry want you to know someone cares, someone recognizes your loss, .

Prayer for Direction
Everlasting God, I ask that You will fulfill Your purpose for my life, my desire for children. Help me not to lean upon my own understanding or rationalize the thoughts in my head. .

September marks PCOS Awareness month. If you are not familiar with PCOS, otherwise known as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome it is the most common endocrine disorder in females. It can severely block your chances to conceive .

If you've been following along on the blog you've probably noticed a series I've been writing, Living Life While You Wait. Today, marks part three of the series, Seeds of Talent. I've been taking parts .

Support Groups in the Houston, Texas area
One thing about this ministry is coming alongside in the form of support groups for those who are hurting through infertility or loss, or seeking adoption too. Below is .

for Quiet Confidence
"O God of peace, who hast taught us that in returning and
rest we shall be saved, in quietness and confidence shall be
our strength: By the might of thy Spirit lift us, we pray thee,
to thy presence, where we may be .

Masculinity & Infertility
Recently I received Resolve, the National Infertility Association's newsletter in the mail. There's a great article included within its' pages Masculinity & My Infertility Journey by Kevin T. Jordan. I found his story interesting and .

Hi there!
Apart from my occasional Monday Morning Prayer and Fertility Fact posts I'm creating a series of three blog posts titled, Living Life While You Wait. I'll not only share a bit of my experience, .

Test Results
Prayer:
Prince of Peace, as I await these results I choose to cast down every imagination---fear, anxiety, and worry--brining them into the captivity of Christ. I thank You that I have no need to fear .

Fertility Fact Friday
______
"Hey Doc! how much is it?"
As I was in the doctor's office yesterday awaiting a pelvic ultrasound I was scrolling through Pinterest on my phone. I came across a pin from an article .

DIFFICULT RELATIONSHIPS
The Prayer:
“Heavenly Father, this fertility journey is not easy on my relationship with others. Help me to be silent or to watch what I say, and that no unwholesome word will come out of my mouth, .

Join me and my fearless-leader friend, Sarah Nelson of The Foundry as we start the new HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group here in Houston. The group is open to any woman whether you're experiencing infertility, .

This weekend in the United States Father's Day will be celebrated. Even though the following post is not infertility related I believe it will speak to the heart of any woman. Have a great weekend!
Love .

Forgotten...
As I type the ellipsis, the series of dots behind the word forgotten it reminds me of how we can feel on this journey. The dots representing a trail, something either left out or left off.
Have .

Conception
What do you do when you've done everything to make a baby?
What do you do when you've spent all your savings on fertility treatments?
What do you do when the doctors have told you, like they've .

(a lovely screenshot from my iPhone)
"I'm here for you." How comforting are those words, right? Well, I mean them from the bottom of my heart. I truly am here for you.
It's been almost 5 years ago, to .

When People Say Insensitive Things
Heavenly Father, why do people say unkind things? I've been hurt by their words and insensitivity. Help me not to be offended, angry, or bitter because of what is said. Instead, .

Women of Hope Christian Infertility Support Group
Bent Tree Bible Fellowship
Carrollton, Texas, 2007
Most of us in and around the infertility world know this week is National Infertility Awareness Week. Prayerfully we are making a difference to .

Re-posted with permission from Michaela Evanow
I don't know how I come across bloggers/writers, but somehow I do. And every now and again I fall in love with their writing, in essence, their heart. Not long .

Monday Morning Prayer
Instead of the usual prayer and scripture reflection for Monday Morning Prayer I thought I'd do something a little different. I wanted to share in today's post, "What is Prayer?". For some of us .

Free Event
Join, Sarah Nelson of The Foundry Church in Houston for their free event, this Saturday, April 12th at 10 a.m. Her guest will be Leslee Murphee, licensed therapist who specializes helping couples through infertility. .

Live Oak Tree
Independence, Texas
Howdy all! That's how we greet one another here in Texas, however, this post isn't about Texas, this blog post is a test. I'm having some issue with my email campaign which .

Forgotten
Prayer:
“Heavenly Father, I praise You that you were pleased to make me Your own and have accepted me in the beloved family of God because of your dear Son, Jesus Christ. Father, these fertility challenges have made .

Stopping Fertility Treatments
Heavenly Father, as a couple we feel we should discontinue fertility treatments due to or because of _____. We believe when we married, you placed the desire in our hearts to have a .

You're Invited!
Live in Houston, Texas or surrounding area?
The gals of the HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group at Lakewood Church meet for a social twice a year and Christmas is one of those times. It's a .

When People Say Insensitive Things
Yep! It's bound to happen with the holiday season approaching and all it entails. If you are able, for the most part, try to remember most people aren't trying to be .

Fertility Fact Friday
Since we are still in November, and since this is National Adoption Awareness Month I thought I'd post a resource on adoption. In my opinion, one of the best Christian resource for adoption .

Adoption
The month of November is National Adoption Awareness month. To honor the month and to encourage those who are in the process of adoption I'm including an Adoption Prayer I've recently written for my book, Dancing .

:: A beautiful poem written by my friend, Joanna Nunez ::
Today I should have held you,
And wrapped you in my arms.
Today I should have heard your cry,
A wonderful alarm.
Today I should have kissed your neck,
And nuzzled .

Are you needing comfort? Has the imagined identity of becoming a mother left you hurting? Has the grief of a miscarriage, stillbirth or early infant loss kept in you in sorrow?
If so, then please come .

Conception
“Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

Along with our regular gathering, HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group we will be holding a special meeting. If you or someone you know has experienced miscarriage, stillbirth or early infant loss then please make plans .

Today's Monday Morning Prayer is a little different than from what I usually post. Whether you're going through infertility, secondary infertility, a miscarriage/stillbirth or a failed adoption attempt I feel the thoughts and scripture from .

Question to Ask When Selecting a Fertility Clinic
Helpful Resources from the National Institute of Health
www.cdc.gov
________________
These questions will help you learn more about a fertility clinic, its services, and staff.
Procedures and Services
What procedures do you currently .

What happens when you cross Dancing Upon Barren Land Ministry and Chik-Fil-A? A Chicken Dance!
Come and support a worthy cause by purchasing a meal at Chik-Fil-A THIS WEDNESDAY from 6-10 p.m. *Please tell them your .

Waiting
“Heavenly Father, waiting is extremely hard, especially when I see so many pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be strong and .

Empty Crib, Aching Heart
A Memorial Service
for
Miscarried / Stillbirth Infants
Saturday, August 24th
The service will be held as a session of the Infertility Support Workshop
Healing Place Church, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Registration & Info at Sarah's Laughter
The grief of .

I know...Could this logo be any smaller? My bad? Sorry, but it's the only graphic I have! But let me tell ya what this is all about...
Infertility Support Workshop
Saturday, August 24th, 9-3 pm, Baton Rouge, .

How many of you have been disappointed by your fertility specialist? As if the infertility journey isn't hard enough, right? I thought I'd post a prayer from another book I found most helpful during my .

Broken Heart
Compassionate Father, my heart is crushed from this infertility battle. My emotions are frazzled. Lord, You said in Your Word You are close to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit. .

When people say insensitive things regarding your fertility issues, doesn't it make you cringe? I'm sure inwardly we are saying, "They literally have no clue! They don't get it!" Which for the most part is .

Vitamin A & Infertility:
Women: Vitamin A it keeps the cilia, (the hair like strands aiding mobility) in the fallopian tubes healthy.
Men: Vitamin A is necessary for sperm production and production of testosterone.
Information provided by www.naturalwomenscare.com. .

Vitamins & Fertility
Women: Vitamin C and Infertility - a deficiency in Vitamin C during the period of conception and early pregnancy can result in early miscarriage.
Men: Vitamin E and Infertility - A January 2011 study .

Today, as Mother's Day is celebrated here in the United States, and perhaps some other parts of the world...I just wanted to let you know...
I wish I has some deeply encouraging devotional...
I wish I had .

Anger
“Heavenly Father, I feel so angry and frustrated about my fertility challenges. I ask for Your divine love to flow through me, for Your love is patient and kind, and not easily angered. Help me to be .

There's a book giveaway over at Pearl Girls today!
Click link below, look for The Perfect Window blog post and enter to win!
Pearl Girls
Today, I have the privilege to have a guest post, The Perfect Window at .

Mommies with Hope is a biblically-based support group and website for women who have experienced a loss of a child. This week I've had the privilege of writing a devotional for their Waiting Wednesday Series - .

Morning Prayer
_______
Recovery from Abortion
from Dancing Upon Barren Land ~ Prayer, Scripture Reflection, and Hope for Infertility Book
The abortion prayer was added to the book due to the fact many women feel their infertility is a .

GIVEAWAY!
My dear friend, Hannah Bunker, and contributing author to Dancing Upon Barren Land is giving away one copy of my newly released book, Dancing Upon Barren Land ~ Prayer, Scripture Reflection, and Hope for Infertility.
Only 3 .

Broken Heart
“Compassionate Father, my heart is crushed from this infertility battle. My emotions are frazzled. Lord, You said in Your Word you are ‘close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’ .

Support Groups Anyone?
If I could take a poll I'd like to ask, "How many of you dealing with infertility/infant loss are attending a support group?"
Here's what a Christian infertility support group can provide
a safe place .

Today, my dear friend, JoAnn and I will be leaving for California to attend the Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference. The conference will be taking place this Saturday at Crossline Community Church in .

SHAME, GUILT, CONDEMNATION
Father God, I thank You that You have given
Your Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross for all
my sins, past, present, and future. Father, I draw
near to You with a sincere heart .

This is an older post, yet I feel these words are timeless and will speak to your heart today. Be encouraged.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Love y’all,
Lesli
It Still Hurts – Be Real – Just Smile
As you .

Today's Fertility Fact Friday - Apps! Yes, that's right. Mobile apps for infertility and adoption. What a wonderful way to use technology to track your natural cycle, a fertility treatment or have a checklist for .

Lately, in the early morning hours I've been hearing the chirp of the cardinal. Faithful this little feathered friend seems to be. The dawn comes. The singing begins, even in the bleakness of winter.
I recall .

The winner of the Giveaway to Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference is...
TIFFANIE!
Congratulations Tiffanie!
-------------
Disappointment
“Heavenly Father, it seems as if every month brings about disappointment because I pray for a child and nothing happens! I don’t .

CHOOSE JOY: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference
Saturday, February 9, 2013, 11:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Laguna Hills, California
A one day faith-based conference for women (and husbands) who are dealing with infertility and who are adopting or have .

When People Say Insensitive Things
Heavenly Father, why do people say unkind things? I've been hurt by their words and insensitivity. Help me not to be offended, angry or bitter because of what is said. Instead, .

I have a guest post today from Emmy Blakely, the founder of Choose Joy Event: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference. If you or someone you know are experiencing infertility, secondary infertility or seeking adoption then .

Baby Related Holidays
The prayer below was written for my upcoming book, Dancing Upon Barren Land - Prayer, Scripture Reflections, and Hope for Infertility. The prayer deals with Mother's/Father's Day; baby-related holidays. I have re-written it for the .

Do you recognize this box?
It's an empty fertility meds box.
Why would I post a picture of this?
This box once held thousands of dollars of self-injectable fertility medicine. Now, it's trash, destined for the recycle bin.
This .

Waiting
“Heavenly Father, waiting is extremely hard, especially when I see so many pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be strong and .

Social Outings for HOPE!
The holiday season can be rather difficult, so instead of our regularly scheduled meetings at the respective churches, we decided to plan social gatherings for the month of December. Not to make .

Forgotten
“Heavenly Father, I praise You that you were pleased to make me Your own and have accepted me in the beloved family of God because of your dear Son, Jesus Christ. Father, these fertility challenges have made .

If you live within the Houston, Texas area please join me and others for HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group tomorrow November 13th at 7:00 p.m.
The Ark Church
450 Humble Tank R.
Conroe, Texas (North of Houston)
(936) 756-1988
Monday .

Fertility Fact Friday
For those of you who have encountered infant loss or infertility I'd like to introduce two resources to you.
Small Bird Studios and Still Standing Magazine.
Small Bird Studios
www.SmallBirdStudios.com
Small Bird Studios is a blog written .

Well, it's not that this picture would cause you anger, it's the crazy infertility journey we experience, huh? This is my friend and contributing author to DUBL, Hannah Bunker. She has a comedic side to .

This past week has marked Baby Loss Awareness Week here in the U.S. I know infertility is a struggle in itself, but for one who's had trouble conceiving, then experiencing a miscarriage, stillbirth or early infant .

State
State Infertility Insurance Laws
Here's a list, along with details for insurance coverage for infertility by state. Presently, only eleven out of fifty states have a mandate for infertility coverage.
http://www.asrm.org/detail.aspx?id=2850
What about you? What is your story .

Conception
“Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

Fertility Drugs & The Risks of Multiple Births
Before you take any fertility drugs please read this article from the American Society of Reproductive Medicine regarding the multiple births and fertility drugs. It's important to be .

Age
“Heavenly Father, my biological clock is ticking, as if You didn’t know. As each month passes I feel that I am racing against that clock. Even the doctors speak of the impossibility of bearing children at my .

Wholeness Completeness
“Heavenly Father, in your Word you said when you made creation, man and woman, you looked upon them and saw that ‘it was very good.’ Father, my empty womb has caused me to feel bad, like .

Forgotten
“Heavenly Father, I praise You that you were pleased to make me Your own and have accepted me in the beloved family of God because of your dear Son, Jesus Christ. Father, these fertility challenges have made .

Fertility Medicines
For most of us on this infertility journey it will involve seeing a specialist, a reproductive endocrinologist. And, for most of us, he/she may prescribe fertility medicines. Oh joy, Is what I say! As .

Finances
“Heavenly Father, You know the path we are to take even before one step. You see how our fertility challenges have brought us to the place of making major financial decisions. Father, give us wisdom regarding our .

Hello everyone,
The post to follow was written many years ago. As I would filter through my journal I would highlight significant moments through my infertility journey. These moments are when God turned my disappointment into .

Difficult Relationships
“Heavenly Father, this fertility journey is not easy on my relationship with others. Help me to be silent or to watch what I say, and that no unwholesome word will come out of my mouth, but .

Preserving Fertility during Cancer
Fertile Hope's hotline is a LiveSTRONG initiative dedicated to providing reproductive information support and hope to cancer patients and survivors whose medical treatments present the risk of infertility.
If you or someone you .

HOPE
CHRISTIAN INFERTILITY SUPPORT GROUP MEETING
Thursday, August 2nd, 7 p.m.
Lakewood Church, 3700 Southwest Freeway, Houston, Texas
Room 4025, 4th floor
Open for Women Only
Support is important during your journey through infertility. It's hard to make the first step .

Do you like to shop?
Then join me at...
Mistletoe Market
This Saturday, July 21 st
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Houston Chinese Church, 10305 S. Main, Houston
(conveniently located at Loop 610 and Main St.)
The Mistletoe Market is a fundraiser for .

You are invited! Tonight (Thursday) at 7:00 p.m. HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group of Lakewood Church is having its annual social. So if you live in Houston, Texas or surrounding area I hope you'll join .

Male Sterility
“Heavenly Father, your Word says, ‘You formed my inward parts, I am fearfully and wonderfully made in Your image’. You made me male and you gave us the command to ‘be fruitful, to multiply and to .

Fertility Fact Friday
Soy
"One study, at King's College London, found that a compound in soy called genistein causes a chemical reaction in sperm as they swim in the female reproductive tract, sabotaging their ability to fertilize the .

Fertility Fact
Whole Milk Dairy Products
"Data collected in Nurses' Health Study--a comprehensive, long-term look at the diet and lifestyle choices of more than 200,000 female nurses--led to the surprising finding that a daily serving or two .

Broken Heart
Compassionate Father, my heart is crushed from this infertility battle. My emotions are frazzled. Lord, You said in Your Word You are ‘close to the brokenhearted and saved those who are crushed in spirit.’ .

Mother’s Day is quickly approaching, ready to pounce on the fragile emotions of every infertile woman in the world. We are doomed for a day of being excluded from dozens of rituals: Mother’s day presents, .

Late last year a rather unassuming red-headed young lady attended HOPE, the Christian Infertility Support Group at Lakewood Church. She was rather quiet at first, yet it didn’t surprise me, most of the gals attending .

This week, April 22-29th marks National Infertility Awareness Week here in the U.S. The theme from Resolve, the nation's infertility association is Don't Ignore. I love the theme, it resonates with us doesn't it? Infertility .

CONCEPTION
“Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

photo credit: hannahbunker.com
HOPE
Hearts Of Promise & Expectation for Women
Christian Infertility Support Group Meeting
Tuesday, April 10 th, 7:00 p.m.
The Ark Church
450 Humble Tank Rd.
Conroe, Texas 77304
936-756-1988
HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group is open to any who are .

One of the reasons I love about having an online ministry or blog is the connection to people all over the world; especially women. Last week, Yvette Rautenbach from Triune Echo, a gospel music group .

Waiting
“Heavenly Father, waiting is extremely hard, especially when I see so many pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be strong and .

Decisions
“Heavenly Father, I thank You that You have the perfect plan to bring about a family in my life. Father, I am faced with so many decisions, the decision to _________________ ___________________ . I ask You to .

Starting this week in the Houston, Texas area, the Christian Infertility Support Groups will be meeting. We've added a new group for those who live on the north side of Houston. Please check the info .

Stress & Infertility
Helpful information from the American Society of Reproductive Medicine
What can I do to reduce my stress?
• Talk to your partner.
• Realize you're not alone. Talk to other people who have
infertility, through individual or .

Continuing in this weeks posts about marriage and infertility, here's a good one! A few years back I taught a lesson titled 'Reproductive Cycle vs. Relationship'. Below is the handout from the lesson with tidbits .

HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group of Lakewood Church
TONIGHT @ 7:00 p.m.!
If you live in the Houston, Texas area I'd like to personally invite you to the support group meeting. It is for women only and .

This past July I attended CLASS seminar in San, Antonio, Texas. CLASS, is an acronym for Christian Leaders Authors & Speakers Services. www.classeminars.org For over the last year, I’ve been writing, working with an editor .

FROZEN EMBRYOS
For some of us the fertility journey God has us on may include pursuing fertility treatments. One of the fertility treatments suggested to some patients is in vitro fertilization. IVF, as it is popularly .

Wholeness Completeness
“Heavenly Father, in your Word you said when you made creation, man and woman, you looked upon them and saw that ‘it was very good.’ Father, my empty womb has caused me to feel bad, like .

Disappointment
“Heavenly Father, it seems as if every month brings about disappointment because I pray for a child and nothing happens! I don’t understand why I have to suffer like this! But in your Word You say that .

Federal Adoption Tax Credit Update
For families considering adoption, finances can be a major issue. The National council for Adoption has a great, detailed description explaining the current status of the federal adoption tax credit. One .

Conception
“Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

Below is a link to an article titled, "Rules Help When Talking About Infertility" from Medline Plus, a service of the National Institute for Health. We can testify communication is the key to any marriage. .

“Heavenly Father, as I await these test results I choose to cast down every imagination; fear, anxiety and worry; bringing them into the captivity of Christ. I thank you that I have no need to fear bad .

If you live in the Houston, Texas area you are invited to HOPE; Hearts Of Promise & Expectation for Women, a Christian Infertility Support Group. Come and receive the love of God and encouragement from .

Male Sterility
“Heavenly Father, your Word says, ‘You formed my inward parts, I am fearfully and wonderfully made in Your image’. You made me male and you gave us the command to ‘be fruitful, to multiply and to .

Four years ago I was speaking at Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference in California. I sat a table with a gentle, quiet man and a bright-eyed tender hearted beauty named, Christy Neuman. We .

A Christmas Reflection
a guest post by Kristin B. Meyer, LMSW of Bethany Christian Services__________
There’s no denying that it’s hard to be infertile around the holidays.
Most of us know this full well—the general spirit of joy .

Hearing God's Voiceby Roxanne Knott of Grace Filled Waitingwww.GraceFilledWaiting.com
When we are in the midst of the chaos of life and infertility issues it can be very difficult to hear God's voice clearly and discern His .

Save the date! June 23, 2015 6 - 7 p.m. CST
for the
Webinar
Keeping Your Sanity While Trying to Conceive
This is my friend, Aaron Bunker. He is the husband of my very good friend, Hannah Bunker, writer .

Fertility Fact Friday______“Hey Doc! how much is it?”
As I was in the doctor’s office yesterday awaiting a pelvic ultrasound I was scrolling through Pinterest on my phone. I came across a pin from an article .

#Giving Tuesday
We have a day of giving thanks. We have two days for getting deals. Now, we have #GivingTuesday, a global day dedicated to giving back to charities, families, businesses, community centers etc. So all .

rem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and .

rem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and .

This week marks National Infertility Awareness Week. Help spread the word about infertility awareness to others. Resolve is the national infertility organization here in the United States. They've provided helpful tips on 25 Things To .

This week marks National Infertility Awareness Week. Help spread the word about infertility awareness to others. Resolve is the national infertility organization here in the United States. They’ve provided helpful tips on 25 Things To .

Stopping Fertility Treatments Heavenly Father, as a couple we feel we should discontinue fertility treatments due to or because of _____. We believe when we married, you placed the desire in our hearts to have .

Hi everyone! It's Hannah Bunker here. It's been a while since I've written a blog post for Dancing Upon Barren Land. Since November is National Adoption Awareness, Lesli asked if I wanted to write up a .

Just a reminder about this week’s HOPE Infertility Support Group at Lakewood Church!
Lakewood Church
Thursday, June 6, 2013
3700 Southwest Frwy., Houston, Texas
7:00 p.m., Rm. 4025, 4th Floor
hope@lakewood.cc
*****
“Let’s take a vacation.” I said to Aaron from the .

Hi everyone! It's Hannah here today. I'm usually over on hannahbunker.com, but I'm also contributing writer here on Dancing Upon Barren Land which you can read all about in this post. Every time I get .

Hi everyone. It's Hannah here, the "young'un" you see in the photo above and contributing writer here on Dancing Upon Barren Land. I hope this December 1st finds you well. I can't believe it's already .

Live in the Houston, Texas area?
Then plan to attend HOPE!
HOPE is an acronym for Hearts Of Promise & Expectation for Women
A Spiritual Support Group for Infertility
_______________________
Lakewood Church
Thursday, October 4, 2012, 7:00 p.m.
3700 Southwest Freeway, Houston
4th .

Baby Related Holidays
Baby Showers/Dedications/Christening/Mother’s/Father’s Day
Almighty God, it seems as if every time I turn around I am faced with a celebration involving a baby. In my heart I don’t want to be jealous, angry or .

Wholeness and Completeness
“Heavenly Father, in your Word you said when you made creation, man and woman, you looked upon them and saw that ‘it was very good.’ Father, my empty womb has caused me to feel bad, .

Hannah Bunker, contributing author to Dancing Upon Barren Land also writes for HOPE, Hearts Of Promise & Expectation Christian Infertility Support Group.(hope@lakewood.cc) She takes copious notes, summarizes the lesson taught during the support group and .

photo by Larry Westfall
This week is National Infertility Awareness Week. The theme from Resolve, the national infertility organization is “Don’t Ignore” bringing about awareness of infertility and the millions affected by it. As I reflected .

Today's prayer for infertility...
Future
“Heavenly Father, I praise You because You have created me and have a perfect plan for my life. I thank You that you desire to prosper me, not to harm me, to give me .

Waiting
“Heavenly Father, waiting is extremely hard, especially when I see so many pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be strong and .

Scrubbing through some old notes I had, I came across this, Waiting Does Not Diminish Us. Even though it's not a particular 'fact' regarding any fertility issues we're facing, I believe we all face the .

Book Review
Recently, I have been contacted by authors to review their newly published books written about infertility and adoption. One thing I love about having this online ministry is how it connects you to others. .

**My apology if you are a subscriber and are receiving multiple e-mails from Dancing Upon Barren Land Ministry. I've had difficulty with my webmail and web service. Thank you for your patience. I'd appreciate your .

“Heavenly Father, I praise You that you were pleased to make me Your own and have accepted me in the beloved family of God because of your dear Son, Jesus Christ. Father, these fertility challenges have made .

Well, what does chocolate and support groups have in common? Both bring comfort. A perfect fit. Well, at least in my opinion. Except there is no comparison to the Holy Spirit, the best Comforter. (John .

When Your Doctor Disappoints You
from Longing for a Child, Kathe Wunnenberg
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with .

a recent article from the mayoclinic.com
Question: Fertility herbs: Do they enhance fertility?
My husband and I have been trying unsuccessfully for more than a year to get pregnant. I've seen many ads for fertility herbs and .

Difficult Relationships
“Heavenly Father, this fertility journey is not easy on my relationship with others. Help me to be silent or to watch what I say, and that no unwholesome word will come out of my mouth, but .

WHEN YOU FACE A MEDICAL PROCEDURE
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. Psalm 91:4
For he will command his angels .

Christian Resources for Infertility
Have you checked the Resource page on the website? Provided are a multitude of resources, both books and support organizations listed by topic. Please avail yourself and search out a resource for .

Below is some info for a new Christian support group beginning in Kansas. If you live nearby, place avail yourself to this opportunity of God's love and support from others.
L. I. F. E.
Living with Infertility .

Today I'd like to continue what I began a couple of weeks ago. Introducing you to My Hopeful Journey's Infertility Tracking Simpl-IFied. Here's a message from Lisa of My Hopeful Journey.
"If a picture is worth .

Finally! Fertility Fact Friday is back! I realize it's been awhile since I've posted in this category.
L.I.F.E. happens!
This week and in the forthcoming weeks I've invited Lisa from My Hopeful Journey to write about her .

DIRECTION
“Heavenly Father, I ask that You will fulfill Your purpose for my life, my desire for children. Help me not to lean upon my own understanding or to rationalize the thoughts in my head. When there is .

All across the United States there are three words spoken to celebrate this day, “Happy Mother’s Day!” a day where we honor and recognize our mother’s.
This day a double-edged dagger comes close to my heart.
I .

For the one going through infertility, you probably have heard comments/suggestions/opinions from others you didn't need or want to hear. It is hard to ignore. How do you respond? Below here are some helpful hints.
For .

DIRECTION
“Heavenly Father, I ask that You will fulfill Your purpose for my life, my desire for children. Help me not to lean upon my own understanding or to rationalize the thoughts in my head. When there is .

Infertility Awareness Week
April 24 - 30, 2011
Most of you may know Infertility Awareness Week is approaching later on this month. I wanted to pass on some events which are happening around the country during .

It has been awhile since I have posted a 'Fertility Fact Friday', huh? Lately, I've been keeping watch on RESOLVE the United States leading National Infertility Association. With Infertility Awareness week coming up April 24 .

Conception
“Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

Test Results
“Heavenly Father, as I await these test results I choose to cast down every imagination; fear, anxiety and worry; bringing them into the captivity of Christ. I thank you that I have no need to fear .

Christian Infertility Support Group for Women
Meets this coming Thursday, March 3rd
7:00 p.m.
____
Lakewood Church
3700 Southwest Freeway
Houston
____
Open to all women, city-wide who have experienced any form of infertility.

Last year, our support group, HOPE, Hearts Of Promise & Expectation for Women at Lakewood Church went through a series on ‘Having a Heart of HOPE’. We discussed the common psychological reactions encountered by couples .

Decisions
“Heavenly Father, I thank You that You have the perfect plan to bring about a family in my life. Father, I am faced with so many decisions, the decision to _________________. I ask You to instruct me .

Thought I'd post this interesting article written this past week on infertility from the Huffington Post. Understandably there needs to be an awareness about infertility in our society and advocates who will speak up for .

Needing someone to talk to about infertility? Would you like to meet others going through what you are going through? If so, I' join with other women from HOPE, Lakewood Church's Infertility Support Group.
This Saturday, .

Test Results
“Heavenly Father, as I await these test results I choose to cast down every imagination; fear, anxiety and worry; bringing them into the captivity of Christ. I thank you that I have no need to fear .

For those of you who live in the United States and are considering adoption the government has extended the Adoption Tax Credit. Click the link below for further information.
Adoption Tax Credit
http://www.resolve.org/family-building-options/insurance_coverage/federal-laws.html

When You Feel Alone or Misunderstood
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Deuteronomy 31:8
Though my .

It's Fertility Fact Friday again! This is the last installment for Infertility Etiquette. When creating the Infertility Etiquette page for the website I felt it was important to list some suggestions on how you and .

Jealousy & Envy
“Heavenly Father, your Word tells me how to love and being envious and jealous is not part of your divine love. Father, I am struggling with envy and jealousy as I see pregnant women and .

Today is our last topic for Infertility Etiquette: Miscarriage or Stillbirth. First of all, if you've lost a baby thru either I want to say I'm sorry and empathize with you. I am praying specifically .

For those living in Houston, Texas and surrounding areas I invite you to HOPE! A Christian Infertility Support Group for women who are struggling with infertility, secondary infertility, miscarriages or failed adoption attempts. We aim .

Remember the movie in the '90's called Ground Hog Day, with comedian Chevy Chase? You might recall he repeated the same things every day, over and over? Well, I am repeating Monday Morning's Prayer from .

Begin the New Year reflecting on these encouraging Bible verses chosen to inspire a fresh new walk with God and a deeper commitment to living the Christian faith.
New Birth - A Living Hope
1 Peter 1:3 .

Infertility Etiquette for Family & Friends
Today the series continues on Infertility Etiquette, specifically for family and friends. I hope you've enjoyed the previous infertility etiquette posts. The intentions of friends and family, for the most .

The other day I posted a comment on Facebook, "Don't Look Back". That phrase has been rummaging around in my mind for several days now.
Recently, my sweet husband gave me a ticket/parking pass, compliments of .

Conception
“Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

Today we will continue on the infertility etiquette topic, specifically etiquette for ministry/spiritual leaders. Consider sharing this post or print out the information and give to your pastor or women's ministry leader. Statistically with 1 .

The Lord's Prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
Today's Monday Morning Prayer is simply 'The Lord's Prayer' found in the gospel of Matthew. At times we tend to get consumed in asking God to move His hand in a certain .

Infertility Etiquette for Doctors
For each week in the month of December for Fertility Fact Friday's there will be a posting for etiquette. Etiquette is one of my passions, the proper, polite way of interacting with .

Sometimes for those of us going through infertility people just say the wrong things don't they? Adding more hurt to this difficult journey. For the most part, their intentions are good, but still, it is .

If you live in Houston, Texas or the surrounding area I 'd like to personally invite you to H.O.P.E. A Christian infertility support group for women struggling with infertility, secondary infertility, miscarriages or failed adoption .

November marks the National Adoption month here in the United States. Today's Fertility Facts include some resources and support organization providing adoption information. I hope you'll pass this on to someone who is .

Well, if you read the recent Fertility Fact Friday then you will gather why I posted those particular acronyms. For the devotional below, I have transposed the medical acronyms into spiritual acronyms. I .

Listed below are a few medical acronyms used in the infertility world. Upon initial testing your doctor will screen you for various hormones. Remember your regular obstetrician/gynecologist has only about 6 .

"Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you."Jeremiah 1:5Today, here in the States, October 15th is declared Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day. For those of you who have lost children whether it .

"Some wandered in the wilderness in a solitary desert track; they found no city for habitation.Hungry and thirsty, they fainted; their lives were near to being extinguished.Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, .

For those of you who live in Houston, Texas or surrounding areas I personally invite you to H.O.P.E., Hearts Of Promise & Expectation for Women, tonight (thursday, Oct. 7) at 7 p.m. at Lakewood Church.If .

In my experience leading an infertility support group, I come across many women who have some element of shame or guilt from the inability to conceive. Also, many of these women fight condemnation not .

Do you live in Texas? In the cities of Amarillo or Houston? There are two Christian Infertility Support Groups meeting this week!Amarillo - Hillside Christian ChurchFor women struggling with infertility or miscarriage. Meets .

This morning's prayer topic is grief. Yes, I know, it is not a light-hearted topic for a Monday morning. However, whether your longing for a child, experienced the monthly disappointment of negative pregnancy tests, a .

Waitby Russell KelferDesperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried.Quietly, patiently, lovingly, He replied.I pleaded, and I wept for a clue to my fate,And the Master so gently said, "Child, you must wait.""Wait? You say wait?" my indignant .

Your invited! If you live in Houston, Texas or the surrounding area I'd like to personally invite you to HOPE, a Christian Infertility Support Group meeting this evening! HOPE brings spiritual support to women .

If you have come over for a visit via Kelly's Korner blog, Welcome! I sure appreciate this gracious Arkansas gal and how she uses her influence to allow others to share 'good things'! www.kellyskornerblog.com. .

Howdy there! I'm not sure what brought you to this blog today; maybe you're having infertility issues, waiting to adopt, suffering through multiple miscarriages or a loss, or you're just plain...waiting. Whatever the .